DNA Hybridization Detection with Blue Luminescent Quantum Dots and Dye-Labeled Single-Stranded DNA

A simple DNA sensing platform was developed based on the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between blue-luminescent CdTe QDs and dye-labeled ssDNA. A cationic polymer acts as a “bridge” to bring the donor to acceptor together and achieves the high FRET efficiency. The hybridization event was recognized by the different FRET efficiencies due to different interaction abilities of single-stranded and double-stranded DNA with the polymer. This platform provides a homogeneous DNA assay that takes advantage of the fluorescence detection method, but with minimal DNA modification.